Hope Springs (2012)

"Hope Springs eternal, but this movie's intensity springs from its painfully real portrayal of a struggling marriage."

 

Episode Description

In this episode of Movie Memory Machine, Landen and Truman explore David Frankel's Hope Springs (2012), a film that blends humor and pathos to depict the journey of a couple (played by Meryl Streep and Tommy Lee Jones) rekindling their marriage through therapy. With Steve Carell as the therapist, we unpack the emotional weight, the awkward laughs, and the overall message of this overlooked dramedy.

 

Major Cast and Crew

• Director: David Frankel
• Writer: Vanessa Taylor
• Main Cast:
  • Meryl Streep as Kay Soames
  • Tommy Lee Jones as Arnold Soames
  • Steve Carell as Dr. Bernard Feld
  • Jean Smart as Eileen
  • Elisabeth Shue as Karen
  • Mimi Rogers as Carol

 

Film Synopsis

Kay Soames (Meryl Streep) is desperate to revive the intimacy in her 31-year marriage to Arnold (Tommy Lee Jones). Despite his reluctance, they embark on an intensive week-long couples therapy retreat with the renowned Dr. Bernard Feld (Steve Carell). Through therapy sessions filled with both breakthroughs and setbacks, the couple attempts to rediscover the spark that brought them together.

 

Episode Highlights

• The standout performances of Meryl Streep and Tommy Lee Jones.
• Steve Carell's unexpected role as a therapist and whether it worked.
• The challenges of depicting intimacy in film for older couples.
• A comparison of Hope Springs to other dramedies of its time.
• Why this film resonated with older audiences but struggled to find wider appeal.

 

What are your favorite films that explore marriage and intimacy? Share your thoughts and reviews on our socials or website!

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